LA CROSSE, Wis.–Marine Credit Union and its foundation are reporting they continue to be “model of strategic community investment, driving financial education and community well-being across its service regions.”
To date in 2024, the foundation has disbursed $83,000 in donations to support financial education and other community-centered initiatives, while also setting aside an additional $88,000 for future contributions.
“Our focus on enriching the communities we serve is a direct extension of Marine Credit Union’s mission to move individuals from financial need to ownership,” Chief Service Delivery & Experience Officer Joumana Mcdad, said in a statement. “The work we do through the Foundation aligns with our broader vision to improve financial health and well-being, leveraging the power of strategic giving and impactful programs.”
According to the foundation, one of the cornerstone initiatives of MCUF is its Finding HOME program, which provides 12-18 months of financial coaching, housing support, and behavioral counseling to families working towards homeownership.
“Since its launch in 2018, the program has empowered over 450 households to achieve sustainable homeownership. In 2023 alone, the program saw 37 new households—132 individuals—graduate, translating into stable housing and significant financial improvements for those families,” the foundation said.
Key outcomes from the Finding HOME program include an average debt reduction of $13,542 and an average savings increase of $8,704 per graduate. The program also integrates financial trauma coaching, a unique component that addresses deeper issues surrounding participants’ relationship with money and equips them with long-term financial resilience.
The foundation said its impact extends beyond financial coaching. Marine Credit Union employees volunteered nearly 2,000 hours in 2023, supporting initiatives like building beds for children in need and raising funds for mental health programs benefiting veterans. The Foundation’s annual golf outing raised more than $152,000 to support its ongoing community initiatives.
The success of these initiatives underscores MCUF’s role as a catalyst for community advancement, demonstrating the tangible benefits of strategic philanthropy paired with financial education. With more than $1.7 million donated since its inception, the foundation remains committed to addressing community needs through focused giving and educational support, the organization said.